Book Review–Inspired to Sew

Inspired to Sew by Bari J. is serious fun. Fifteen light-hearted stylish projects are featured in this well-illustrated how-to book. Want to make an unusual apron for a gift? This book features a petal apron, made of several fabric petals sewn together.

There is a charming handbag with three-dimensional flower appliqués. A lovely “garden tunic” features an appliquéd neck and sleeves.

This book is sure to please sewers looking for charming, feminine projects.

Most of the projects in this book can be made with cotton and cotton blends. Cotton prints, solids, and broadcloth fabrics are among the easiest fabrics to sew and to care for. This natural fabric comes in any color or color combination imaginable and I highly recommend it if you are starting your first sewing project. It feeds easily through the sewing machine and it is also easy to sew by hand.

Amy Butler Fuchsia Tree Chartreuse

Some of my favorite cotton prints come from Amy Butler’s collections. Always fresh, yet very classic, Amy Butler fabric features something for every taste. These top-quality cotton designs are a favorite with quilters and crafters, but they are also excellent for cotton dresses, skirts, shorts, and tops.

Before cutting out any cotton fabric you should pre-shrink it by machine or hand washing. Dry either in the dryer or on the line. If the fabric is wrinkled after washing, be sure to iron it before laying your pattern out on it.